"My dad always told me to dream big and dream always," he said. "It's not like I shoot for the Outstanding Pitcher Award," he said. "I have big aspirations for what I want to do in this game and what I want to achieve in a long career."
The Indians pitching ace made some of his dreams come true this year, winning 10 games and losing only 2. In 20 starts, Persons registered a 3.72 ERA and limited other clubs to a .226 batting average. He fanned 88 in 121 innings and issued 78 walks.